ABSTRACT
Background: Healthcare workers are the White army compacted the COVID-19 epidemic, and reports worldwide have shown an increase in SARS-CoV-2 among healthcare workers due to their direct interactions with infected patients. This study aimed to examine the clinical manifestations and risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 infection among healthcare workers in Palestine and offer recommendations to ensure health workers' safety and adopt workplace safety policies. Method(s): This questionnaire-based cross-sectional observational study was conducted using an online questionnaire to collect information about SARS-CoV-2 transmission, signs, symptoms, and treatment reported by healthcare workers. Furthermore, we explored policies, protocols, and practices that make health workers vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Result(s): A total of 389 healthcare workers were included, 216 (55.5%) were exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, 173 (44.5%) were infected with the virus, and the prevalence of hospitalization was 16%. The most commonly reported symptoms are fatigue, weakness, and muscle pain. Female healthcare workers experienced a significantly extended duration of symptoms than male workers. Direct contact (working less than 1.5 m) with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients and lack of COVID-19 and PPE training were risk factors for COVID-19 infection among HCWs. Conclusion(s): The healthcare system must ensure a safe work environment and adopt policies and procedures to ensure HCW safety, proper training, and resource availability to cope with crises. Copyright © 2022 Abukhalil et al.